English Programs & Degrees

English Major

From Chaucer and Shakespeare to American literature and literary journalism, the Bachelors of Arts program in English offers courses that cover all aspects of English and American literature — from Medieval poetry and prose to contemporary fiction. Many of these courses are organized historically by literary periods, and some focus on a specific literary genre, such as the novel or drama, or an individual author. English majors often study independently with professors through tutorials, independent studies, and senior theses, where students work one-on-one with a professor on a topic of their choosing. Students who select the thesis option work collaboratively with a professor to complete a significant research project. This major prepares students for further study in literature (MA or PhD programs), as well as for any profession that requires strong critical reading and writing skills. Helpful Links

Creative Writing Major

The Creative Writing Major at Providence College offers a rich mix of creative writing and literature courses that provides students the rare opportunity to complement their creative writing skills with the exciting addition of literature courses that arc from Chaucer to contemporary fiction and poetry. Creative Writing majors work with distinguished poets, fiction writers, and scholars in both classroom and tutorial settings as they develop their creative writing talent and critical acumen. Students may choose between fiction, poetry, and prose poetry as areas of particular concentration in preparing their final portfolios. In addition to working closely with their Creative Writing professors, students are also invited to meet with eminent guest poets and fiction writers from the Poetry and Fiction Series to discuss their work. This major prepares students for further study in either MFA or PhD programs, as well as for any profession that requires accomplished writing skills. Helpful Links

Secondary Education in English Major

The College offers a major in English/secondary education for students who aspire to teach high school English. The program combines the subject area major in English with education courses, field experiences, and student teaching requirements. All of PC’s teacher education programs are approved by the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Interstate Certification Compact. Helpful Links

English Minor [Literature]

Are you interested in timeless literature but don’t have the time to take on a full English major? Try our new English minor, which emphasizes immortal authors and unforgettable books. The six-course minor requires the following:

ENG 175 (Introduction to Literature)
Two Pre-1800 courses
Two Post-1800 courses
One course receiving major credit

Writing Minor

Interested in literature, poetry, or journalism? Then, our Writing minor is for you. The dynamic, 18-credit minor complements nearly every major — from the arts and sciences to business and humanities disciplines—by focusing on sharpening written communication and reading skills.

Courses